
This lot is subject to Artist's Resale right
German School
Epidaurus
oil on canvas
66 x 93 cm
Provenance
private collection, London
Estimate
€ 4 000 – 6 000
Notes
In the 19th Century an unprecedented number of talented artists devoted themselves to travelling and drawing the ancient monuments of countries such as Greece, Italy, Egypt and so on, where they transformed the tradition of depicting idealised scenes (prized by their predecessors) and instead drew directly from their source of inspiration.
The Grand Tour, as it is referred to, primarily valued the cultural legacy of classical antiquity and the Renaissance.
From the 17th century onwards a tour to such places was considered essential for budding young artists in order to understand proper painting and sculpture techniques.
In addition, it provided the only opportunity to view specifi works of art, and possibly the only chance to hear certain music. A grand tour could last from several months to several years.
Epidaurus is a work painted by a German artist on such a European tour.